Ingredients
300g diced bacon or ham
6 eggs
1 1/4 cups milk (full cream or low fat)
1/4 teaspoon salt
Black pepper to taste
7 cups packed plain bread cubes (preferably slightly stale, about 2 cm / 1 inch cubes; baguette recommended)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, Monterey Jack, pepper jack preferred; avoid mozzarella or add extra salt if used)
Optional garnish: finely chopped parsley
Instructions
1-Getting started with this recipe is as easy as pie or should I say, strata! First, cook the bacon in a large non-stick pan over high heat, saving some for the top. This step adds that smoky flavor we all love and takes just a few minutes.
2-Next, in a big bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until they’re well mixed. This creates the custardy base that makes the strata so yummy. Then, add the bread cubes, most of the cheese, and the cooked bacon to the bowl, stir it up, and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This soaking step is key for that perfect texture.
3-Preheat your oven to 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) and grease an 8-inch pan with butter.
4-Pour the mixture into the pan and press it down gently.
5-Sprinkle the reserved bacon and remaining cheese on top, then cover with foil.
6-Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake another 15-20 minutes until it’s golden and a skewer comes out clean.
7-Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, and add parsley if you like.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
๐ฅ Use slightly stale bread for better soaking and texture.
๐ง Choose cheeses that melt well; avoid mozzarella alone unless salted.
๐ณ Prepare the strata mixture ahead and soak overnight for convenience and enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Soaking Time: 30 minutes to overnight
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 376
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 902mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 178mg
